A terminally ill gay man has died three days after marrying his long term partner in Oldham, Greater Manchester.
Richard Byram-Leech, 42 lost his battle with lung cancer shortly after marrying his partner over twenty years, Cliff Byram-Leech.
The couple had planned to marry on July 5th, but moved the date forward due to Richard’s deteriorating health.
With the help of a Doctor Kershaw and a number of staff, Richard and Cliff Byram-Leech wed on Monday the 7th of April, and had planned a reception for the following Saturday.A number of loved ones were in attendance, some from across the country.
After Richard succumbed to his illness, Cliff decided to go ahead with the reception, using the occasion to celebrate Richard’s life. He shared memories of his love and experiences with Richard with family and friends in the Chadderton Town Hall.
“I felt Richard was very courageous for everything he’s gone through. We didn’t carry on with a celebration of our wedding but with a celebration of his life.” Cliff said.
Senior Nurse Kay O’Neill had this to say: “It’s been very mixed emotions, from being very happy on the wedding day to very sad at Richard’s death. But we were proud to be able to host a wedding family and friends were able to make into a special day.”
The couple met over 23 years ago in Blackpool and had been together ever since.
Same sex marriage became legal in the UK on March 29th this year. Cliff said the couple decided to wed when Richard was diagnosed with cancer in October.
“When Richard was diagnosed we said straight away we should get married. It just seemed fitting to get married given the circumstances.”
Sophie Joske
